Newsracks

Publication distribution boxes/newsracks have become a neighborhood eyesore. They are magnets for graffiti, vandalism, and neglect. Advertising A-board have also proliferated, creating a sidewalk obstacle course. The Safety and Livability is committed to improving this neighborhood wide problem. We are addressing this issue at two levels:

Quarterly inspections: Four times a year, two willing volunteers inspect and document the condition of the boxes along NW 21st and NW 23rd. Publishers are then notified and reminded of their responsibility to maintain the boxes and remove graffiti.

Sidewalk Management
Subcommittee: This subcommittee consists of Phil Selinger and Jeanne Harrison working with the Safety and Livability Committee and representatives of the Downtown and Pearl Neighborhood Associations and the Friendly Streets organization. The goal of this committee is to protect and enhance the streetscape environment. More information can be found under the Transportation tab.

Felicia: Old Town won’t address approving our effort till Sept.; downtown is working on inventory in order to identify abandoned racks and subsequent removal ; it will be on our agenda in July.

Fran: Met with NE Coalition of Neighborhoods, they will bring it up at their July meeting; Alberta Main St. Program will endorse, I expect to get a letter; The NWDA approved the ‘property owner’ letter; will start handing it out.

Phil: I sent Lloyd TMA an email and will follow up.

Jan: PDNA passed a resolution and we completed a similar report like NWDA’s. PDBA is on board and expect a letter of endorsement

Mary Ann: I will contact Nob Hill BA and give them a head’s up about the ‘property owner’ letter

Mike: I recommend we get Old Town’s endorsement before we approach the city in a meaningful way. You should also explore the insurance issue… could be a roadblock to developing any kind of neighborhood monitoring/removal program.

Mary Ann: I will contact Mark at NWNW regarding insurance

Fran: Maybe it’s time we reconnect with PBOT

Phil: I will try to arrange a meeting and suggest to Rich at PBOT to invite Amanda Fritz and/or Mayor’s office if it is appropriate

Mary Ann: Next meeting 10am, 7/27. I will confirm via email if I can reserve World Cup again

Did you know that the City of Portland code Title 17/Public Improvements ‐ Chapter 17.28.020 specifies the responsible party for side‐walk management as the owner of the property that abuts the right‐of‐way? This makes the property owner responsible for newsrack encroachments which are placed haphazardly by publishers. To lean more and steps you can take, download: Newsrack Removal Letter_Building Owner.pdf

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